Puno firefighters battle spreading forest fire amid equipment disputes

Volunteer firefighters in San Román-Juliaca are battling a spreading forest fire that originated in Lampa and has moved through Calapuja toward Pucará. Fire chief Liu Frisancho Aroco reported that crews have been fighting the blaze for three days, facing difficult terrain and a lack of institutional support. The firefighters have had to rely on local citizens for fuel and assistance while working with deteriorating equipment to protect rural homes, livestock, and elderly residents.

In response to claims of inadequate support, Puno Regional Governor Richard Hancco Soncco denied allegations that he threatened to halt equipment procurement for the fire department. Hancco stated that a S/ 20 million investment in firefighting equipment is ongoing, though the purchase of personal protective gear is currently delayed due to an observation from the State Contracting Supervisory Body (OSCE). The planned investment includes S/ 2 million for protective gear, S/ 11.3 million for ambulances and rescue vehicles, and the procurement of two telescopic trucks.